Hip Revision
What is Revision Hip Replacement?
Implants from total hip replacement surgery may wear out for various reasons, and need to be replaced. Revision hip replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces all or part of a previously implanted hip joint with a new artificial hip joint.
Signs you may need a Revision Hip Replacement
Our hip revision surgeons and specialists will recommend revision hip replacement for the following conditions:
- Increasing pain in the affected hip
- Worn-out plastic or polyethylene prosthesis
- Dislocation of previous implants
- Loosening of the femoral or acetabular component of the artificial hip joint
- Infection around the hip prosthesis, causing pain and fever
- Weakening of bone around the hip replacement (osteolysis)
Revision Hip Replacement Procedure
- Your hip surgeon will make an incision over the hip to expose the joint, then dislocate the femur from the acetabulum in order to remove the old plastic liner and metal socket from the acetabulum.
- Your hip surgeon will prepare the acetabulum using extra bone and wire mesh, then insert the new metal shell into the socket using screws or special cement. Next, they will place a plastic liner inside the metal socket.
- Your hip surgeon will remove the implant by cutting the top of the femur bone into several pieces, cleaning the bone segments, and then inserting the new femoral implant into the femur using a press fit or using bone cement.
- Your hip surgeon will place the femoral head component on the femoral stem, and secure all the new components in place to form the new hip joint. All the new components are secured in place to form the new hip joint.Your hip surgeon will then repair the muscles and tendons around the new joint and close the incision.
Post-procedure Care for Revision Hip Replacement
Following revision hip replacement, your hip surgeon will recommend the following guidelines to prevent the new joint from dislocating and to ensure proper healing:
- Avoid bending your hip and turning your foot inwards
- Place a pillow between your legs while sleeping for six weeks
- Never cross your legs or bend your hips past a right angle (90 degrees)
- Avoid sitting on a low chair
- Avoid bending down to pick up things; instead, a grabber can be used to do so
- Use an elevated toilet seat
Risks of Revision Hip Replacement
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications with revision hip replacement surgery. These may include:
- Infection
- Dislocation
- Fracture of the femur or pelvis
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels
- Formation of blood clots in the leg veins
- Leg length inequality
- Wearing of the hip prosthesis
- Failure to relieve pain
Have you had total hip replacement surgery and suspect you may need a revision? Schedule a free consultation with our hip surgeons and specialists to see if you may need a revision hip replacement.
Schedule an Appointment
If you wish to be advised on the most appropriate treatment, please call to schedule an appointment or click to request an appointment online.